In the Gospel last Sunday, Peter boldly proclaimed Christ to be the Son of God. This weekend, Peter is the one who now attempts to frustrate the very plan of God. Jesus describes the type of suffering and death that He would endure. Peter pulls the Lord aside as if to prevent the will of God from being accomplished. Jesus, who called Peter the “Rock” last Sunday, now refers to Peter as satan. How can he go from being the one the Church will be built on to being associated with the very one who does all to destroy that very foundation? The Gospel this weekend is a not so subtle reminder that we are called to follow Christ. Peter attempted to get out in front of Christ and tell Him that what He is saying (namely the type of death He would endure) must not happen. Peter is putting himself ahead of Christ. He is putting himself before God’s divine plan. The reason Jesus called Peter satan is that, as you recall, satan tried to do likewise. Jesus puts Peter in a very real way “back in his place.” He does not send Peter away or cast him out of His presence. His command is for Peter to follow. We need to know our place in our relationship with Christ. So take up your cross and get in line. He leads ~ we follow!
Faithfully Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne